This week, BMW unveiled the refreshed 2009 3-series, but unfortunately, we only have specs for the European models so far. Nonetheless, those details give some hints about we can expect from the diesel-powered 335d that arrives at U.S. dealers this fall. The one detail we already knew was that the diesel 6-cylinder would only be paired up with a 6-speed automatic and that the U.S. power output would be 265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque. Our European friends get 286 PS (around 282 hp) and 428 lb-ft. The Euro edition 335d sedan is rated at a combined 35.1 mpg (US) while still accelerating from 0-62 in 6.0 seconds. The current European version has a particulate filter, but the urea injection system is not yet included. With the slightly lower power of the U.S. version, the acceleration will probably drop off by a couple of tenths of a second, and the EPA test procedures will likely yield a combined fuel economy number of about 30 mpg. By comparison, the gas-powered 335i only has 295 lb-ft of torque but a slightly higher 306 hp while only being rated at 25.8 mpg (US) combined. The 335d is no Prius but for a strong-performing sport sedan it certainly has very impressive mileage.
Now, if only BMW would just see fit to offer American drivers the four-cylinder 320d. The 177 hp its 2.0L four produces lets the 320d run from 0 to 62 mph in a more-than-adequate 7.9 seconds while returning a combined 49 mpg when you translate its EU-standard 4.8 liters/100 km composite fuel economy rating to U.S. miles per gallon. Now we're talking!
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